University of Virginia Library

I condemn myself [for the past] , and will be on my guard against future calamity .
I will have nothing to do with a wasp ,
To seek for myself its painful sting .
At first , indeed , the thing seemed but a wren ,
But it took wing and became a [large] bird .
I am unequal to the many difficulties of the kingdom ;
And I am placed in the midst of bitter experiences .